The Academy Award-nominated Latifah, who previously starred in the producers hit musicals Chicago and Hairspray, will star as M’Lynn and also co-executive produce the film. Rashad and Woodard will cosar as bickering longtime friends Clairee and Ouiser, respectively. Grammy winner Jill Scott will play beauty shop owner Truvy, Adepero Oduye has been cast as her awkward protogee Annelle, while Condola Rashad, daughter of Phylicia, will play the pivotal role of Shelby. Filming will begin on the project, an updated version of the popular play and 1989 film, next month in Atlanta.

"We believe the movie is about community...and it's a community of all types who fit together by a commonality of family," Meron said to The Advocatewhen the project was first announced. "Very much like the gay community. We think that there are a lot of elements that gay viewers can relate to, with these ladies hanging together, growing together and dealing with the eccentricities of life and the strength they must face when there is a death among them at such an early age."